The Board of the Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Breen Bentley is the 2024 Business Leader Award Recipient.
A release from the chamber says Bentley’s list of accomplishments is many and impressive, learning about the restaurant industry starting as a ten-year-old working as a dishwasher, then honing his skills at other area restaurants and eventually graduating years later from the Stratford Chef School. He then purchased the Jesters Arms and changed the name to Bentleys.
“This will be Bentley’s Bar Inn and Restaurant’s 40th Anniversary and there really are too many people to thank for where I am today,” said Breen. “To begin with my Mother Doreen, my three hard-working children, Breen Jr., Tanner, and Brooklynn, and my ‘Little Brother’ Jason Debus. I love the bar business and without them all working here, I wouldn’t still be doing what I’m doing. From my family to yours, thank you!”
Chamber General Manager Eddie Matthews said Breen has always been the face of Bentley’s, but he always likes to be behind the scenes. “We are thrilled that he is accepting this award because I know that he’s passed on a few other hospitality honours over the years.” Matthews added Breen should also be commended for his commitment to the community through sponsorships and job creation. “Whether it’s soccer or any other sports, but how many people has he hired over those 40 years? I don’t think you could put a list together for that or it would be incredibly long.”
Breen and his children will be presented with the award and be guest speakers at the 28th annual Business Excellence Awards gala on May 2 at the Best Western Arden Park Hotel. It’s an evening where exceptional local business leaders are recognized.
The Business Leader is decided by the Chamber Board of Directors and is a three-step secret ballot process. Nominations are put forth then a list is curated, followed by secret ballots being cast until there is a clear winner.
